Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working vessels R&D: => Topic started by: carlmt on August 03, 2016, 10:26:00 pm

Title: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on August 03, 2016, 10:26:00 pm
Good evening all  :-))
 
Now that the development of the MV Norland is well under way, the stocks have been cleared to make room for the development of the MV Spirit of Free Enterprise.
Launched in Bremerhaven in 1979, she was owned and operated by Townsend Thoresen through much of the 80s along with her sisters; Herald and Pride, before the  company was bought by P&O. Following the tragic loss of her sister ship, the Herald of Free Enterprise in March  1987, P&O modified the appearance of the Spirit. Her colours changed to P&O's blue and white livery and she was  renamed Pride of Kent.
Her hull was extended  by 31m in 1991. In 2003 she was bought by  GA Ferries and renamed the Anthi Marina to operate on routes  between Piraeus, Kos and Rhodes. She was laid up in Elefsis Bay in 2011 and finally  scrapped in Aliaga, Turkey in 2012.
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20FB_zpsu3z9bvpj.jpg)
 
Naturally, the first job was to loft out the hull form to enable the profiles to be cut and the plug to be built:
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20HULL%20PROFILES%201_zpsa9v29drw.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20HULL%20PROFILES%202_zps8tgxkebx.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20HULL%20PROFILES%204_zpsw1n6utoj.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20HULL%20PROFILES%203_zpsopx5ayrs.jpg)
 
And this is a graphical representation of what the fibreglass hull shape will be in the kit:
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20HULL%20PROFILES%205_zpsxtx8ylk8.jpg)
 
At nearly 1.4m long and 250mm in the beam, I think she will make quite an impressive sight on the pond!!!!
 
 :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Stavros on August 03, 2016, 10:34:01 pm
MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
Now this has got my FULL attention


Dave
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Capt Podge on August 03, 2016, 10:56:46 pm
Ok Carl - you have my interest piqued also. :-)

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: derekwarner on August 03, 2016, 11:31:20 pm
Certainly a unique bow propulsion system Carl...... :o

Would you contemplate the FWD propeller drive in addition to the two athwart thrusters?

It is however interesting to see the size of her main engine axis and the flatness of the propeller shaft line

Derek
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on August 19, 2016, 12:01:31 am
Ok Carl - you have my interest piqued also. :-)

Regards,

Ray.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
Now this has got my FULL attention


Dave
Thank you Gents!  :-))
I will update as I go along - I am designing this one in between workshop work on the Norland model.
I had an 'interesting' communication from a chap in Germany about the hull for this model - apparently, he produces a fibreglass hull at 1:100 scale and 'offered' to supply them for the kit.............at a price of close to 500 Euro each!!!  :o   I think we will produce our own........
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on August 19, 2016, 12:04:21 am
Certainly a unique bow propulsion system Carl...... :o

Would you contemplate the FWD propeller drive in addition to the two athwart thrusters?

It is however interesting to see the size of her main engine axis and the flatness of the propeller shaft line

Derek

Hi Derek
Yes, I plan to incorporate the bow propeller as a working option in the kit along with the bow rudder.  And as for the shaft angles - it appears that nearly all the Dover ferries have these very horizontal shafts.  Doesn't make mounting the motors in the kit very easy, but we managed it in the Free Enterprise model.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on August 19, 2016, 12:14:05 am
Little bit more of an update....
 
Been sharing my time between designing this model and working on the Norland kit.  Now that the hull profiles are complete, I have spent a bit of brain energy working out the best way of constructing the superstructure.  The biggest problem with a ship like this is the amount of top-weight.  In addition, I have had to work out the 'best' way of gaining access to the inner hull.
 
My thoughts to overcome both of these problems - and still retain some structural integrity - is to produce the whole superstructure as a lift-off unit and constructed of styrene no thicker than 1mm.  To give the strength, this means that it has to be built 'egg crate' fashion - using cross-profiles interlocked with the decks and fore-and-aft superstructure profiles (three of them - one on the centre-line and one either side).  The whole 'skeleton' would then be clad in 0.5mm thick styrene sheet, accurately cut on the laser-cutter and with the windows already cut out and ready for glazing.  Thought has also been given to allowing some internal detailing of some areas of the inner passenger spaces as the windows are quite large and the interior can be quite easily seen through them.
 
Anyroad - here are the initial drafts of the profiles that will go to make up the superstructure:
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20superstructure%20spines_zps3aazllji.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20superstructure%20profiles%201_zpsbauavkuo.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20superstructure%20profiles%202_zpsucgd7ykr.jpg)
 
I am quite happy how this one is turning out so far................
 
Carl  :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Capt Podge on August 19, 2016, 12:25:28 am
Many thanks for the updates Carl - this gives us an interesting insight into the trials and tribulations of kit development. O0

Looking forward to more of the same. :-))

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: markrider on September 27, 2016, 09:26:11 pm
any more info on this kit yet as really intrested in it many thanks
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on September 27, 2016, 09:59:01 pm
any more info on this kit yet as really intrested in it many thanks

Hi Mark
Just dropped you an email.  We will get back on with updating this thread very soon - we have been a tad busy getting the Norland sorted for moulding and ready for launch and sorting ourselves out for the forthcoming Blackpool and Warwick shows.
 
Hope this helps?
Cheers
Carl
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 08, 2016, 05:55:50 pm
Quick update:
Preparing the stocks for the build of the SOFE plug - base template glued to the build board, profiles to be cut tomorrow  :-))
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%2007-10-16%202_zpshlwkfxwj.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%2007-10-16%203_zpsomug3rjc.jpg)
 
More tomorrow..............
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on October 08, 2016, 10:44:01 pm
Wow, you are really pushing the known boundries of Ferry kit availability to new places! Is that the fourth kit you are developing? That is dedication to the hobby  8)
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 15, 2016, 05:51:05 pm
Wow, you are really pushing the known boundries of Ferry kit availability to new places! Is that the fourth kit you are developing? That is dedication to the hobby  8)

Hi Ian - this one is actually number 3, the fourth is the M/S Dalaro which we will be starting on around Christmas.  The Norland is number 2 and we should have the prototype hull back in time to show it at Warwick.
 
As for dedication - well, I like to think that we are offering something different that hasn't been available before.  To be honest, we are thoroughly enjoying it!!!!  Looking forward to the forthcoming shows.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 15, 2016, 05:54:11 pm
A little bit more work carried out on constructing the plug for the SOFE (in between laser cutting parts for the FEV kits and pulling the front bumper and lights of my Daimler following an altercation earlier in the week!!!  :(( ):
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%2009-10-16%202_zpsgikfbosl.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%2009-10-16%204_zpsewry10i7.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%2009-10-16%205_zpss6wbxxre.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%2015-10-16-1_zpsrdixyogw.jpg)
 
More tomorrow  :-)) :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Umi_Ryuzuki on October 15, 2016, 07:09:14 pm

Hi Derek
Yes, I plan to incorporate the bow propeller as a working option in the kit along with the bow rudder.  And as for the shaft angles - it appears that nearly all the Dover ferries have these very horizontal shafts.  Doesn't make mounting the motors in the kit very easy, but we managed it in the Free Enterprise model.

Having run a double ended ferry model, I don't recommend running the forward propeller as
a "puller". It tends to suck the water out from the bow and cause the bow to dive.

The bearings in theses ships wouldn't really be set up to work as a puller.
What I ended up doing was installing a relay, that would trigger when I put the boat into reverse.
The relay would activate when reverse current was applied and switch the power to the forward motor.

 :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: cos918 on October 15, 2016, 07:30:52 pm
Having run a double ended ferry model, I don't recommend running the forward propeller as
a "puller". It tends to suck the water out from the bow and cause the bow to dive.

The bearings in theses ships wouldn't really be set up to work as a puller.
What I ended up doing was installing a relay, that would trigger when I put the boat into reverse.
The relay would activate when reverse current was applied and switch the power to the forward motor.

 :-))

Hi Umi
The Spirit class only ever ran the Bow prop when going astern from the Linkspan . It was never made to move the ship forward. It was designed to give better manoeuvrability .
John 
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 15, 2016, 08:23:30 pm
Hi Umi - John is right.  The ferries on the English Channel are not double-enders.  The bow prop shown here was only used when manoeuvring within the port - it increased the wash across the bow rudder thereby keeping the speed down when approaching the Linkspan going astern.
 
Should be interesting figuring out the electronics for running the model.....
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on January 31, 2018, 11:29:56 pm
Been a little while since I posted an update on here - sorry about that chaps!!! Wont happen again.......
 
As well as the day-job, sorting kits out for customers etc. etc. etc., been busy planking the hull plug for the SOFE :
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180127_214939_resized_zpsqrmww2eg.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180131_230402_resized_zpsh1xiddd9.jpg)
 
9mm x 2mm obechi strips glued with PVA and pinned whilst drying.  The 5mm x 5mm rubbing strakes were fitted before planking and the strip planking is only being applied below this (or above as in the photos 'coz the hull is upside-down!).  From the belting to the top edge of the hull (bulwark rail) the plug will be sheathed in obechi sheet.  The sides are quite flat but there is a pronounced crease running fore and aft along them.  The bow and stern will be blocked in and sanded to shape.
 
Getting there!!!!
CT  :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on February 01, 2018, 09:06:17 pm
I am not surprised you are busy looking at your advert in Model Boats Carl. Two kits released and two more on the way and this one as well!

Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 05, 2018, 10:20:47 pm
It's all go here at the moment Ian  %% %% ! I wish I was retired.....I could work more hours then!!!
 
And in an effort to avoid heading out into a rather cold workshop to carry on planking, I have been sat in a warm office working up the 3D files for some of the fittings - in particular the bow and stern rudders and the over-hanging car deck platforms.  These have now been uploaded to Shapeways for prototype printing to see how they come out, but the photos below are the actual 3D computer models fitted to the rest of the 3D generated ship.  So far, it seems to fit together OK!!!!
 
Bow rudder and support frame including propshaft tube...... Rudder is designed to be able to operate.  This shot also shows the underside of the overhanging platform at the bow.
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/3d%20assembly%20bow_zps8ycnq6id.jpg)
 
Stern rudder and skeg and the underside of the overhanging platform above:
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/3d%20assembly%20stern_zpsh7neaacp.jpg)
 
General view from above of the whole concept - bow on........
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/3d%20assembly%201_zps1ji9iqak.jpg)
 
And another from the stern quarter.........
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/3d%20assembly%202_zpsjmemsxn7.jpg)
 
The white profiles above the green car deck are the superstructure profiles that will be provided as laser-cut acrylic Perspex in the kit.  This will then be clad in styrene with all the window openings pre cut.  The coloured horizontal decks in the images are also of Perspex and are in the correct positions of the decks on the actual ship.  As the windows are quite large on this vessel, there is ample opportunity to install seating and other internal detail should the modeller wish.
 
More soon!!! :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: raflaunches on February 05, 2018, 10:24:53 pm
Can’t wait to it in the flesh so to say! Brilliant work, love to see the development of a kit from the beginning. :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on February 05, 2018, 10:36:11 pm
Glynn Guest had an article published in Feb's Model Boats about his build of a double ended ferry. It might be worth having a look as regards suggestions for setting the running gear up etc. It's a nice model in his style  :-))

What thickness perspex are you supplying the formers in? Acrylic can be quite heavy. Looks excellent Carl!
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 05, 2018, 11:09:37 pm
Cheers Guys!!
Ian - Yes, I read Glyn's article and I have kept it handy to refer to.
As for the Perspex - it is 2mm thick for rigidity but I have created a whole load of lightening holes in the parts....as many as I think I can get away with without affecting the integrity.  The beauty of true Perspex (as opposed to other acrylics) is that it cuts so neatly and cleanly on the laser, unlike styrene, and thickness for thickness, is more rigid than styrene.  When I have cut the skeleton I will weigh it and see where we are at.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 05, 2018, 11:29:36 pm
The hull planking is now about 65% done.........
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180205_232452_resized_zps15tbg5kj.jpg)
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: derekwarner on February 05, 2018, 11:48:47 pm
Hmmmmh......cut the top off and it would make one....'Hella of a nice Swear Jar' for the Workshop or Office  {-).. Derek
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on February 06, 2018, 08:48:49 pm
Groan  %) {-)   

I expect you will have a fair idea having designed several kits now what is needed weight wise, so I doubt you will find any problems. I wasn't aware of differences between the acrylic family but it makes sense.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 06, 2018, 09:12:36 pm
Some acrylics are cast and others are extruded.  Cast is best as the molecules have not been put under tension by being extruded with the risk of the acrylic crazing later (so I was told by my laser supplier). And Perspex is the 'go to' brand for quality acrylic because the formulaic make up of the acrylic is constant.  A little more expensive but you are paying for quality.
 :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on February 06, 2018, 09:15:03 pm
That is useful to know.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: raflaunches on February 06, 2018, 09:17:45 pm
Excellent quality stuff- I use Perspex for turret barbette rings and funnels after reading that Brian King used it for the same reason.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Klunk on February 06, 2018, 11:34:45 pm
Flo is getting slow on the planking Carl. Does she need some more bubble wrap???
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Brian60 on February 07, 2018, 06:54:43 pm
As Carl says, there are several variants on acrylic sheet. Extruded or cast can be cut on a laser but by far the best result is from cast. trouble is the stuff is  not cheap compared to extruded.

I've found it can be bonded ok after cutting on a laser (extruded) but does craze like mad sometimes -  I think this is down to individual batches rather than 'across the board' so to speak.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on February 07, 2018, 09:57:19 pm
To paraphrase the saying: 'You normally get what you pay for'.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 12, 2018, 11:34:47 pm
Another chilly evening in the workshop - roll on summer PLEASE?????
Have now finished the planking to the hull below the belting line - just awaiting the delivery of a load of jelutong wood.  The gaps you see in the keel near the stern will be filled with jelutong and then carved and sanded to shape.  The same with the bow and stern.
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180212_223623_resized_zpsu5iu5vvr.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180212_223653_resized_zpsvlxcyvis.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180212_223718_resized_zpsomuef8kc.jpg)
 
The hull sides above the belting will be created using sheet as opposed to planks as, other than a slight horizontal crease midway along the sides, they are flat.  The bow and stern where the doors are will be created using the jelutong again carved and sanded to shape.
 
Once all this is done, the whole plug will need to be sanded smooth, skim coats of filler applied and sanded again.  This will be repeated until we have a very smooth and fair hull and then the whole lot will have three or four coats of filler primer applied and then rubbed down, wet, until we have a glass-smooth finish.
 
 :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: derekwarner on February 13, 2018, 12:08:15 am
Carl......the hull bellying is unique %) ...does it have a design reference?.............. Derek
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 13, 2018, 12:37:35 am
To be honest Derek I have no idea!  I created the frames from the lines plan and this is how it has turned out.
It looks pretty drastic in the photos but in reality it is very shallow - I think the line of the planks emphasises it.  Where the hull skin rises again is where the A frames for the props sit - perhaps it helps direct the water flow into the prop? Just guessing there....
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: hama on February 13, 2018, 04:45:10 am
Looking good Carl!
Best wishes to you and Flo  :-))
Hama
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 15, 2018, 11:03:31 pm
Looking good Carl!
Best wishes to you and Flo  :-))
Hama
Cheers Hakan !! By the way, we have a nice package here for you - we will send it over soon.  Hope you enjoy!!!  :-))
 
Been back in the workshop this evening (what's new there I hear you cry!!!).  Blocking in with Jelutong where some shaping and carving is to be done.
 
Firstly the bow below the belting:
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180215_223012_resized_zpscqafyjm5.jpg)
 
And then the stern......which, once dried, I couldn't resist carving and sanding to shape.  It is SO satisfying to see it emerge!
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180215_204152_resized_zpsqbr5lgle.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180215_205302_resized_zpse3nwpzax.jpg)
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180215_210810_resized_zps6pxfslsg.jpg)
 
We had a delivery of 3D parts from Shapeways today as well - which included the stern rudder and skeg, bow rudder and frame and the bow and stern loading platforms.
 
Here is a shot of the bow rudder and it's frame placed in position.  Marks will be made in the hull to locate the rudder shaft as well as the location for the propshaft - as you can see, the shroud for the propshaft will sit half into the hull so a slot will need to be cut to accommodate this.  The shroud will take a 6mm o/d tube which will contain an M4 stainless steel propshaft :
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180215_193426_resized_zpsbsxevhap.jpg)
 
 :-)) :-))
 
 
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Kim on February 17, 2018, 12:38:39 am
Hi All,
Cast / extruded argument eventually showed up in Laser cutting discussions..


CNC cut Extruded will be the cheapest option to get the parts to fit (Remember, cast is nominal thickness so no matter how good your calculations are the material will stuff you .....how do i know ? ..... i sold 5 stands before making the discovery! ...many moons have past ...


For tolerance work now I either cnc extruded for cheapness or use Hesaglas on the Laser.
Cheaper in the long run on tolerance work.
Hope it helps/ saves costly mistakes.

Regards,
Kim
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Kim on February 17, 2018, 12:50:00 am
But i have to say at the risk of being cheeky ...
Carl, you need to get some filler on that dip... I often wonder if it was a Pre-Digital thing to stuff one former on a drawing. It throws the faithful copier right off ... lol


I laugh with you as i have just encountered almost the same problem recently.

Regards,
Kim
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: derekwarner on February 17, 2018, 01:21:32 am
So Kim suggests.....'you need to get some filler on that dip'

Maybe just over 1/2 a litre volume per side?.......... :P ....Polyfilla + Microballoons ?

Derek
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 20, 2018, 02:17:30 pm
On the case chaps........on the case. No idea what happened but it is an easy fix.

Now started to get the hull sides fitted above the belting line.  A little tricky as there is a horizontal crease running the length of the hull that is quite noticeable on the real ship but, when scaled down, is less so, but is nevertheless there.....

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180219_213412_resized_zpsjhnxkldk.jpg)

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180219_213326_resized_zpseyc4e3wb.jpg)

Getting there bit by bit  :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on February 20, 2018, 07:56:40 pm

To save the time and cost of filler (though I see a good smothering of the stuff :O) Could you pop the joins between the planks and fraes at this point and fur them with shims of wood? You would end up with wee diamond gaps between the planks but maybe less filler or smartly shaped fillets of wood would sort that out.


Looking fab Carl, Your work on the crease is tidy.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on February 20, 2018, 08:29:46 pm
To save the time and cost of filler (though I see a good smothering of the stuff :O) Could you pop the joins between the planks and fraes at this point and fur them with shims of wood? You would end up with wee diamond gaps between the planks but maybe less filler or smartly shaped fillets of wood would sort that out.


Looking fab Carl, Your work on the crease is tidy.

Hi Ian - Many thanks for the compliments!  :-))
I see where you are going with the idea, but there isn't a great deal of filler needed really....and what will be slapped on helps to get everything nice and smooth before painting.
 
Cracking on with sheeting the hull - just waiting for some more sheets to steam so that they wrap at the stern without breaking....
 
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180220_201727_resized_zpsu9g8xuwx.jpg)
 
 :-)
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on April 30, 2018, 02:33:18 pm
Bit of an update - we were hoping to have had a prototype hull with us at Dortmund recently but time was against us.

Nevertheless, we are progressing with the plug and can see light at the end of the tunnel  :-))

Once all the woodwork had been prepped filled and sanded, a couple of coats of wood primer were added by brush:

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180429_163305_resized_zpsju4l2i6l.jpg)

Then a single coat of filler primer was added by spray gun and flatted back with 400 grit wet n dry used wet:

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180430_113531_resized_zpsyyt8wiw5.jpg)

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180430_122202_resized_zpsoqxfksec.jpg)

Once cleaned with neat alcohol and tack-ragged, a further two coats of filler primer were added and we are now waiting on this drying before flatting back again:

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180430_131137_resized_zpswofsrx91.jpg)

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180430_1311190_resized_zps3hixdwc8.jpg)

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180430_131157_resized_zpspetfbfce.jpg)

More soon!!!!  :-)) :-))

Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: big_bri on April 30, 2018, 05:01:05 pm
WOW! your doing a tremendous job Carl.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: hama on April 30, 2018, 10:54:22 pm
That' s looking splendid Carl!
Hama
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Dreadnought on May 01, 2018, 07:51:23 am
Wow looking great! :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Brian60 on May 02, 2018, 07:05:27 pm
Coming on nicely, can't wait to see the first hull out of the mould. By the way your significant other likes Lurpak, either that or you have shares in the company :}
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on May 06, 2018, 12:04:19 am
Thanks for all the kind words friends  :-)) :-)) :-))

And, yes, it is me that prefers Lurpak - Flo prefers salt-free butter (President if she can get it...).  The tubs are extremely handy!!!!

Major milestone reached this evening - the plug has now been separated from the building board and, after a few little touch-ups here and there, it will be off to the fabricator for moulding:

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180505_220658_resized_zpscwggmq5y.jpg)

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180505_220717_resized_zpsc3vtifb6.jpg)

Bow and stern door edges have been scribed onto the surface - it will be up to the modeller if they want to make them operable :

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180505_224328_resized_zpszfv4lb9a.jpg)

(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20180505_224242_resized_zpsyymw756k.jpg)

Test cutting of the superstructure framing will commence tomorrow  :-)) :-))

CT
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: derekwarner on May 06, 2018, 08:27:13 am
Looking great progress Carl :-))

If I am not mistaken, the designers of this Vessel chose the more conventional arrangement for the deployment of the stabilizer fins  O0 in that the pivot is FWD of the fin blade

Derek..................opps..the image file fell off :embarrassed:
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: derekwarner on May 06, 2018, 08:31:17 am
Looking great progress Carl :-))

If I am not mistaken, the designers of this Vessel chose the more conventional arrangement for the deployment of the stabilizer fins  O0 in that the pivot is FWD of the fin blade

Derek
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on May 06, 2018, 04:11:00 pm

Good news Carl. Upright with the mounting battens still on makes her look a bit like an aircraft carrier minus the flight deck!


 The details you have added should make her easy to build  :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on May 06, 2018, 07:02:15 pm


That is correct Derek - the opposite to how they are on the Norland.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Mark T on May 06, 2018, 09:27:54 pm
Carl that is just absolutely lovely  :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on September 22, 2018, 12:53:55 am
Well lookee here what turned up in the Linkspan Models workshop today................


The prototype hull for our 3rd kit offering of the Spirit of Free Enterprise  O0 O0 O0



Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Howard on September 22, 2018, 11:28:25 am

Great Hull Carl,
   Just wish I had room for one, still got the SD14, and three bath tubs to do, well that's what the wife calls them, Northsider, Wearsider, and Gragsider.
       Regards Howard.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on September 23, 2018, 11:18:02 am
I didn't realise the hull had such a sheer Carl. Very nice and crisp. Air bubble, bobble and chip free  :-)) Is the additional end detail taped on a cast or printed item? Looks to fit like a glove  :-)
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on September 23, 2018, 08:58:22 pm
Hi Ian
She has a very 'angular' sheer - it isnt a smooth flowing curve.  It's purpose was to bring the centre of gravity as low to the waterline as possible.  The main truck deck is at the level of the top of the hull belting and it was this feature that 'did' for her sister ship in that, once the water found itself onto this deck it flowed down to the lowest point and we all know what happened then.


The end detail you refer to is a 3D printed item and will supplied as such in the kit.  I admit, I was surprised at how closely it actually fitted the f/g hull but it will need a little tweaking here and there to fit better  :-)) .  There is a similar one for the stern too.  I felt that it would be better to add these as details as opposed to trying to mould them in with the hull.


C
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on September 24, 2018, 10:39:09 pm
It gives a straight edge to mark along at both ends as well.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on September 24, 2018, 10:48:10 pm
It gives a straight edge to mark along at both ends as well.


Aye - that is true!  I have yet to trim the hull down to the proper 'top edge' yet so that bow fitting is sitting slightly higher than it should.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on January 27, 2019, 10:23:01 pm
Been a little while since I posted an update here.  What with the full-time job, buying a house in France and then Christmas, time seems to have flown by!  Not been idle on the development front though - drawings to be created, parts to be tested (especially the framing for the superstructure!) and ideas to be gone through.


Have now progressed to marking up the hull and cutting the top edge to create the finished deck level.  This is quite critical in that it will dictate the finished levels and angles for the whole superstructure.  These photographs will all be included in the kit instructions as they graphically show the critical dimensions to be worked to:



Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on January 27, 2019, 10:31:33 pm
After marking out the hull top edges, these were then cut down initially with a Dremel with drum sander attachment followed by careful sanding with a medium/coarse paper attached to a wide-ish flat piece of wood.  Doing this, it is essential that the hull is stable and level in both directions (hence the heavy batteries in the hull) and constant checking is done to ensure that both sides are sanded to the same level.  Once all the hull top edges have been reduced to the correct levels and angles, the inside edge is sanded back to give a smooth-ish (not too smooth otherwise the adhesive will not bond) and even finish.  Aim to achieve a hull edge thickness or between 1mm and 1 1/2mm - this will ensure a neat edge to the deck, not to say an easier life when actually fitting the deck!

Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on January 27, 2019, 10:36:49 pm
Following all this, it was time to fit the wooden hull framing and deck supports.


I have found that it was easier to construct these frames off the ship.  The advantages of this are that a strong structure can be built ensuring that the parts are square and that, once fitted, it is easier to centralise the amount that the hull sides have to be pulled in - without distorting the hull or building in a twist.  These wooden frames are then glued into the hull using 24hour 2 pack epoxy - ensuring that they are 2mm below the top edge of the hull to allow for the thickness of the deck:
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: cos918 on January 27, 2019, 11:20:59 pm
Hi Carl
Looking Good
John
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on January 27, 2019, 11:27:02 pm
Cheers John  :-))   Getting there slowly %)


Got your message re Dortmund - just as soon as I hear back from the organisers I will be able to work out what is happening.  Should hear something very soon now!  Even Ron and the Peterborough club have not heard anything yet.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on May 11, 2019, 11:23:43 pm
Bit of an update needed methinks - now that I have Photobucket working again!!


Following the delivery and testing of our 3D printer, we have managed to print the larger parts needed for the hull : anchor pockets, linkspan platforms, rudders (bow & stern), bow rudder frame and propshaft A frames.  The stabilisers have been designed and will be printed in the next few days.  I have designed these to be one-piece units which, following a shaping of the housing box to fit the inside of the hull, can be fitted in one go - no constructing a housing box like what has to be done on the Norland.  The 3D system we have allows us to print fully working parts in one go - lets see how they turn out!


Anyroad, here is the hull with most of the 3D parts (the dark grey parts) fitted :


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190505_182855_resized_zpsngb0eu04.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190505_182838_resized_zpsptvacsbv.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190511_222911_resized_zpsh998na5r.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190511_222949_resized_zpsm5pfy40h.jpg)


And these are the parts printed so far :


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190505_164841_resized_zps1ox6xoip.jpg)


All these, and more, will be included in the kit.


 :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: hama on May 12, 2019, 07:12:31 am
Looking good Carl! :-))
Hama
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on May 12, 2019, 08:51:04 pm
Looking good Carl! :-))
Hama


Thank you my good friend!  :-))


This material that is used for the printing is certainly tough enough to produce the housings for the azimuth pods for the Dalaro.  I really cant wait to get stuck into working on her  O0 O0
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on May 12, 2019, 09:09:07 pm
Mounting the bow rudder frame permanently today:


Double and triple-check the locations of the parts of the rudder frame that locate in the hull, mark with a pencil and then cut and drill as necessary.  Then to locate the exact spot to drill for the rudder post, insert a suitable length of 3mm dia plastic rod or wood dowel into the bottom bearing cup on the frame and offer the frame to the hull.  Ensuring that everything is upright and square, where the 3mm dia rod touches the keel, mark with a pencil and drill a 4mm dia hole to take the rudder post tube.


Ensure that the hull sits level in the stand, tape the rudder frame into position, drop the rudder tube through the drilled hole and then insert the rudder post and rudder - these last two are not glue yet - just fitted 'dry' to help align the tube.  Now make sure that the rudder frame is vertical, drop the rudder tube down so that it just touches the top of the rudder when the rudder is packed up by 1mm from the frame.


All should be nice and vertical now so a healthy helping of 5 minute epoxy was added to the joint between tube and hull inside the hull.  Once that has had a good 24 hours to dry, it will be reinforced with fibreglass resin.


A few shots to illustrate :


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190512_193501_resized_zpsn7lfckkb.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190512_193521_resized_zpsmqmtgqlt.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190512_193513_resized_zpsalscgjas.jpg)


 :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Dreadnought on May 13, 2019, 05:52:30 am
Looks great!!!  :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Akira on May 14, 2019, 09:33:20 pm
Great looking 3D printed parts! Fun build to follow as well :}
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on May 29, 2019, 10:56:16 pm
More development this evening on the Spirit of Free Enterprise kit....


After lofting out the deck plans for the ship, I came to the conclusion that the superstructure parts at the level of the upper car deck would be just too complex and prone to compound error were they to be made up from flat styrene plastic parts in the conventional way.  These superstructure elements form the port and starboard walls of the upper car deck and contain deck-housings for vents and fans as well as stores and other small machine rooms.  Additionally, the crew access decks to the lifeboats is at this level.


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/SOFE%20STERN%201_zpsitpnhoxz.jpg)


Consequently,  I have decided that, to assist the modeller with setting out the superstructure correctly, this whole level will be formed from 3D printed components.  These are the first out of the machine - port side as viewed in the photo above:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190529_215321_resized_zps1xpqan1q.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190529_215334_resized_zpsdxdkqhll.jpg)


As the rear of the car deck is open, it is possible to view the entire deck from the stern so it is important that the interior detail at least approximates the real interior of a card deck on a ferry.  Hence the framing on one side of the component.  An additional benefit to this is that the framing adds stiffness to the 3D part.  You will note that the stairway has been printed as a part of the wall component. This was an experiment to see if it would work. I am pleased to say that it did!


More soon  :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Dreadnought on May 30, 2019, 07:02:52 am
Very Good Carl! :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on May 31, 2019, 11:02:04 pm
I forsee a time when kits like this will equal Tamiya or Dragon in fit of parts and ease of construction Carl! You are doing a lovely job with those 3D parts, and some of them are clearly major components.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Howard on May 31, 2019, 11:34:32 pm
Hi Carl,
 In a word just Amazing as I have said before your becoming a MASTER CLASS. I only have one problem with your boats Carl after down sizing to a bungalow and only now having a single  garage/hubby model room I just no longer have room for them.
                   Regards Howard.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Colin Bishop on June 01, 2019, 11:57:51 am
As Dr McCoy might have said: 'It's model making Jim, but not as we know it.'  :}
Colin
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 05, 2019, 10:23:40 pm
Time for another update I reckon - seeing as Blackpool is looming over the horizon!


We have not been idle here at Linkspan HQ - there has been a lot of prototyping, experimenting and, unfortunately, discarding of ideas but, I think we know where we are heading now with how to build this model.


After experimenting with the idea of using acrylic sheet for the skeleton of the superstructure, we have had to abandon that idea because of two reasons:


1. Acrylic sheet is not dimensionally accurate in thickness - a nominally 2mm thick sheet can vary from 1.8mm to 2.2mm across it's area.  That is no good for us when we want to rely on a 2mm thickness to allow an accurate fit.


2.  Because of the problem with 1. above - the acrylic parts are prone to shattering when the joints are tight and a little force is used to fit them together.


This will be no good for a kit - there will be too many breakages and the modeller will end up fed up and bin the kit.  So, we have decided to stick with making the skeleton from 2mm thick styrene sheet.  Let's see how that goes eh?


In the meantime, the hull is progressing......


The majority of the electronics have been dropped in, motors fitted and all working.  Still need to sort out which sticks to twiddle and switches to switch to activate the bow propeller and bow rudder, but that will come later.


A frames fitted to shafts and bow and stern rudders all connected up:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190923_225938_resized_zpsx1ktaaa7.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190923_230112_resized_zpssbo9onxm.jpg)


Stabiliser boxes fitted:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20190804_205125_resized_zpsdh9fjsx5.jpg)


Bow decking added:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_120227_resized_zpsghmdqde6.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_182804_resized_zps9sskllyn.jpg)


Additional support timber added to give support to the removable deck parts - which are primarily under the superstructure within the car deck area:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_120217_resized_zps1tcaz1at.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_120159_resized_zpstxchyu4c.jpg)


All the decking dry fitted to ensure that it all fits neatly:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_212648_resized_zpsodhu86p6.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_212659_resized_zps5rdznnju.jpg)


The deck parts are lasered slightly larger than they need to be (0.5mm or so) to allow the modeller to fettle them to fit accurately on the hull.  Far better to have slightly larger parts that can be sanded to size than slightly smaller parts that you can do nothing with!


After ensuring that all the seck parts fitted accurately it was time to glue them down to the wooden support structure using 5 minute epoxy:


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_215305_resized_zpsf5qsdh6i.jpg)


These two shots show how much access into the hull is available after all the deck has been fitted :


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_212816_resized_zpsznr38s4c.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191005_212828_resized_zpsj5z5sak6.jpg)


The plan is to have the hull finished and painted by Blackpool and hopefully the styrene superstructure skeleton sat on it to give an idea of overall size.


Crack on CT!!!!!!


 
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 06, 2019, 04:30:14 pm
A little test of the 3D superstructure parts to see how they will fare now that there is a stable surface to lay them on!!


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191006_154651_resized_zpsfpqekdpo.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191006_154600_resized_zpsxskxxpej.jpg)


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191006_154627_resized_zpsklxfur8q.jpg)

Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: hama on October 06, 2019, 09:41:07 pm
Like a glove! {-)
Looking good Carl! :-))
Hama
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: raflaunches on October 06, 2019, 09:56:01 pm
Simply amazing Carl


It’s stunning what can be accomplished with modern technology, the amount of detail that can be incorporated makes it really stand out. Looking forward to seeing it, and yourself, at Blackpool. We’re paying a visit this year. :-))
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: ballastanksian on October 06, 2019, 11:14:18 pm

I salute your making kits to such tolerances Carl. While not a Tamiya kit, I can see this being a hassle free kit to assemble. I cannot see anyone being phased by making .5mm adjustments in an easy to use medium.


No material is perfect but styrene has a lot going for it. It glues as easy as acrylic but is flatter and does not readily shatter ) old sun damaged styrene will, but that has to have been left in a silly place and not painted) and can be easily cut with hand tools unlike acrylic, again because of its ability to shatter.


Nice work matey! I am looking forward to your progress on this vessel.
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: carlmt on October 08, 2019, 10:15:24 pm
Thank you Friends for the kind words and encouragement  :-)) :-))   Feeding off that at the moment in the drive to have something to show at Blackpool  %% .


Had a bit of a 'mare' week lately in that our 3D printer decided to throw a tantrum which resulted in us scrapping a 48 hour print set of Norland parts.  It was a mechanical failure of a cord that activates the roller that lays the fine powder layers on the print bed : after the 300 or so hours of printing it has done, it just wore out, became slack and so wasnt laying the powder correctly, resulting in a right mess in the machine!  Have now cleaned everything up, installed new recoater cord and stocked up with fresh powder - back in business!!!!


In the meantime, we have had the first set of graphics produced for the prototype Spirit - courtesy of Gillespie Models.  And what beauties they are too!!!  These are waterslide decals (as opposed to our normal vinyl graphics that we have used in the past) and I am looking forward to getting them applied in time for Blackpool.  O0


(https://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Spirit%20of%20Free%20Enterprise/20191008_214029_resized_zpsy169hb1t.jpg)


Once the kit is on general release, the full variation of graphics will be available to choose from : Townsend Thoresen original, Townsend Thoresen white TT funnel logo (all three sisters), P&O colours (with P&O ship names) and Trans Europa Ferries "Oleander" set.


More soon!
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Paul2407 on February 17, 2020, 07:53:47 pm
Hi Carl,
Any idea when the spirit of free enterprise might be ready for sale? I've been looking for a decent kit for a while and this is it  :} 


Thanks
Paul
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: Plastic Man on October 28, 2021, 05:06:45 pm
Has this been finished and anyone got pictures to share?
Title: Re: Linkspan Models : MV Spirit of Free Enterprise - Development of a kit
Post by: cos918 on October 28, 2021, 09:07:27 pm
no and here is a link to what it currently looks like .
John
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/linkspanmodels/photos/pcb.4307454659301584/4307454252634958/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/linkspanmodels/photos/pcb.4307454659301584/4307454252634958/)